Heavy fighting, internet disruption as Ethiopia conflict rages
Conflict in Ethiopia has escalated as Tigray rebels launch offensives into neighboring regions, leading to heavy fighting and internet blackouts. The TPLF is reportedly attempting to disrupt key supply routes and challenge the federal government.
Why it matters
The resurgence of civil war in Ethiopia threatens regional stability and risks a humanitarian crisis similar to the 2020-2022 conflict.
Ethiopian forces battled overnight to repel an assault by Tigray rebels in the Afar region, a humanitarian source said Friday, with reports of an internet blackout in the north of the country.
Rebels in the northern Tigray region seized local airports and launched attacks into the neighbouring states of Afar and Amhara this week, saying they were once again in a "full-blown war" with the federal government.
Locals fear a repeat of the telecoms blackout and supplies blockade imposed on Tigray during the last civil war in 2020-2022 that killed an estimated 600,000 people.
Online monitor Netblocks said there was an "internet disruption in northern Ethiopia corresponding to reports of a telecoms blackout in Tigray". AFP was unable to contact sources in the region by phone on Friday (September 25, 2026).
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